San Antonio Zoo Tours

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With more than 3,500 animals from over 750 species, the San Antonio Zoo is home to some of the world’s most incredible creatures. Throughout the day visitors can experience close encounters with giraffes, lions, elephants, tigers, pelicans, hippos, crocodiles, and more. The animal habitats are set up to be both educational and recreational, so that you learn about the animals while enjoying your time at the park.

The zoo offers one of the largest bird collections in the country, as well as recognized breeding programs for endangered and threatened species. In fact, it was the first zoo to successfully reproduce the rare white rhinoceros in North America. The zoo emphasizes conservation and high standards of plant and animal care, and was one of the first in the United States to have cage-less habitats. Aside from the exhibits, there is a zoo train that takes visitors around the premises, a butterfly garden, open rainforest, and carousel.

Practical Info

The San Antonio Zoo is located in the Brackenridge Park area of the city. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, admission costs $14.50 for adults with reduced rates of $11.50 for seniors and children. The zoo train (additional $3.50 for a ticket) is a fun and easy way to get around the park. Food and drink are not allowed inside. Parking is plentiful and free.

Visit the San Antonio Zoo to see more than 3,000 animals from around the globe. Check out the largest collection of birds in the world; large animals including tigers, hippos, zebras, and elephants; a number of different monkeys; and daily talks by the experts. Ride a train around the beautifully landscaped grounds, or let the kids take a spin on the carousel, which features colorful native Texas animals.

To truly appreciate San Antonio’s rich history and diverse cultural attractions, embark on a full-day grand city tour complete with entertaining narration and sound effects. Starting from downtown, travel by coach on a carefully planned route that takes you past dozens of points of interest, from historic saloons and UNESCO World Heritage–listed missions to modern highlights like the museum district and botanical gardens. Learn Texas trivia along the way, and stop for a San Antonio–style lunch at the El Mercado old Mexican market.

Set your own pace as you sightsee with the San Antonio Explorer Pass, valid for 30 days after your first use. Select three, four, or five top attractions, tours, or activities, including perks such as skip-the-line admission. Enjoy discounts and save up to 40 percent on regular ticket prices to sites such as the Texas Ranger Museum, San Antonio River Cruise, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Discover the confluence of cultures and historic events that shaped modern-day San Antonio on a 4-hour evening coach tour. Designed to complement the optional half-day morning tour for a complete overview of the city’s history, the tour makes three stops to points of interest including the Japanese Tea Garden, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Mission Concepcion, San Jose and the Alamo(optional). Along the way, learn Texas trivia and enjoy live narration from a local guide.